Herb Profile – Basil

February 1, 2013 Gardening Gals Uncategorized

Basil is an annual plant that grows during the warmer months from November to May.  It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground.

Basil likes to be positioned in a sunny spot.  The larger the leaf type, the more shade it will tolerate.  The purple leafed basil tends to bleach in full sun so plant it where it will not receive the hot afternoon sun.

Continually harvest your Basil to encourage new growth.  Harvest the leaves when the stems become woody and pinch out flowers to encourage leaft growth.

Basil is commonly used as a companion plant with Tomatoes.  Allow one Basil plant per Tomato bush.

There are many types of Basil including:

• Sweet (Common) Basil – great for pesto, tomato soup, pizza and other Italian inspired dishes
• Thai Basil – used extensively in Thai dishes
• Purple Leaf Basil – used in salad, soups and sauces

Frost will kill Basil so it is best to harvest and store any excess by April.